Understanding Negligence

Negligence is an important topic related to personal injury claims and lawsuits. In fact, it is the most common grounds for personal injury claims in the United States.

Negligence is defined as a person or entity's failure to act with proper care or responsibility under the circumstances. As members of a civilized society, we are expected to act with a reasonable level of caution for the safety and wellbeing of others in virtually everything we do. This may include driving a car, taking our dog on a walk, maintaining our property grounds or performing the duties associated with our jobs. If we do something or fail to do something and this constitutes a breach of this obligation, we may be held accountable if another person suffers physical and/or emotional injury as a result.

For example, when we drive a motor vehicle we are required to obey traffic laws. We also have a duty to drive in such a manner as to reasonably protect the safety of our passengers and other drivers, pedestrians or cyclists who may be sharing the road with us. Texting while driving, running a red light, driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs or driving while distracted may all be examples of negligent behavior. If this leads to an accident that results in another person being injured or losing their life, the negligent driver may be considered liable.

If you were injured because someone else was negligent, you may be able to file a personal injury claim in order to sue for monetary damages. This money can help you with medical bills, continued medical care and physical therapy, emotional suffering, lost earnings and more. To find out whether you have a case, please contact the Law Offices of Stipe & Belote for a free, no-obligation consultation. The firm also works on a contingent fee basis, meaning you pay nothing for their services unless your attorney wins your case.

Contact an Oklahoma City personal injury lawyer at the firm today for your case review.